For enterprises, the availability of smaller, more-affordable versions of telecommunications carrier-grade gear enables fiber to serve as a core-to-edge solution — especially for large campuses or newly constructed facilities. POL combines these technology advances and falling fiber-optic infrastructure costs to provide IT managers with the option of developing their own optical networks, specifically designed for…

Rather than build new capacity without the intelligence — and plan to add the “brains” later — airport visionaries are recognizing the benefit of terminal facilities that are smart and adaptive from the very start. Harnessing Smart Infrastructure Airports are hungry for innovation. And yet, airports typically struggle to advance their innovation goals. Historically, the…

Interactive and personalized media not only help remove stress from air travel. These innovations can also improve convenience, efficiency and safety. Unique travel experiences support tourism efforts by drawing attention to the cultural and natural features of the surrounding region, distinguishing airports at a time when competition among travel options reaches new heights. In the…

To ensure technology system benefits are realized early in the planning stages, a Master Systems Integrator (MSI) can, if scoped correctly, develop a holistic, strategic approach. Consequently, engaging an MSI early in planning and design phases has emerged as a solution to tackle the complexity of technology integration.  Collaborative Systems Integration Multiple definitions of Master…

Widespread implementation of Positive Train Control (PTC) has initiated this trend. In PTC-controlled territory, where PTC automates signal speed, enforcement of track speed, and safe train separation, the wayside signal system is beginning to move the wayside signals into the cab of the locomotive, along with other relevant data that assists the locomotive engineer in…

With Access Comes Opportunity Up until now, the advent of 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) mostly benefited mobile consumers, streaming content and connecting to affordable cellular access wherever they roam. Implementation impediments have held back its potential for large enterprises. 4G LTE is limited in its ability to serve locations with a high density of…

A few 5G basics 5G wireless networks are being offered in two basic species. It is important to develop a basic understanding of each. Let’s cut through the jargon and sort out the marketing hype. High Band/mm Wave refers to the area of the electromagnetic spectrum above 24 GHz. Transmitted between microwave and infrared waves,…

Widespread use of PTC systems is likely to prevent collisions and save lives. PTC systems reliably and functionally prevent train-to-train collisions, overspeed derailments, incursion into established work zones, and movement through a mainline switch in the improper position, among other functions. To mark this accomplishment, I reflected on the evolution of some of the technology…

Logistical constraints, limited staffing levels, and high costs associated with rebadging are confounding security credentials offices. Widespread rebadging efforts come as many airports are already overwhelmed by the safety and security challenges associated with significantly reduced passenger travel volumes, reduced airport income causing reduced budgets and spending, and layoffs and furloughs amid the global pandemic.…

Authenticating Biometrics Biometric authentication is used in several different ways . The most common is multi-factor authentication, using biometrics in conjunction with an access token and PIN or password, for example, to gain access to a facility or computer system. Biometrics also are used to identify a specific user from a population of known persons,…